Editor’s Note: Looking to get coverage for your music? We have a submission form. Take a minute to tell us about your project so we can better plan our editorial coverage. You can find the form HERE.
Pretty guitar sounds all over the place. Country, indie, psyche bursting from every window and streetcorner in RVA this week.
Got a show coming up? New single? Simply want someone to talk music? Hit me up at griffin@rvamag.com.
Celler Dwellers, Woody, Twin Films
Saturday, April 11th
The National
I have been Celler Dweller-maxxing lately. They strike that chord of beachy indie rock that I learned to drive to on exciting summer nights as a teen. Between the intimate nature of “Taste” and the unapologetic dance of “Apologizing,” these guys just get it.
They feel like the cool older friends you make who really broaden your horizons (à la The Perks of Being a Wallflower). Every lyric hits right to the sternum. You feel seen and heard, while also learning more about yourself than you knew before. I put these guys on during a road trip last week, and it was nigh a religious experience. Do yourself a favor and follow suit.
Joining the Dwellers is Charlotte’s own indie rockers, Woody. They’re pouring bottles of jazz and jars of country into their sound stew. A guitar slides seamlessly, the drums play a couple bars of something I can’t count, and I love it. The vocals are strong, strong, strong, and have a certain charm that makes you smile.
Last up, we have locals Twin Films. These guys have everything. If you want it, I guarantee they’ve got it in their back pocket. They can do an indie rock thing to the highest degree, and they can shift into something more electronic with ease. I’ve been lucky enough to see them a few times live, and they’re always wild. Without fail, they get the crowd into a grinning frenzy and create an unforgettable experience.
Willie Watson, Tess Fisher
Thursday, April 9th
The Camel
You may know him from his years in Old Crow Medicine Show, but this time Willie Watson is bearing his own name on the marquee. His solo work is stripped back and bare, with the focus resting on detailed, vivid storytelling. The characters he sings about are so lifelike and real, it feels as if you already know them.
This is country rooted in heart and feeling. It feels like he’s playing right in front of you, maybe for a dozen friends in a backyard, maybe on a street corner for passersby. It’s a refreshing sound, building on the traditions of Guthrie and Williams Sr., but still feeling fresh and honest.
We have Tess Fisher opening the night. Fisher has a fantastic, unique vocal sound that feels like it’s blowing in on the wind to your front door. Their songs seem to carry the weight of a hundred years in each strum and pluck. They’re deeper than just songs, more than just three minutes of sound. They’re living storybooks, breathing history. Fisher can crush a slow, moody tune just as well as an upbeat, dancey kicker.
Squeaky Feet, Lucid Evolution
Friday, April 10th
Richmond Music Hall
Berklee alumni Squeaky Feet are at our Music Hall this week. These guys have some ripping songs that are chock-full of improvisation. They blend the intricacies of prog rock with the excitement of jam to create something high-energy and lively.
There’s an incredible amount of dynamics and moving pieces in each song that keep you on your toes, equal parts suspense and dance. If you like big sounds, complicated solos, and shifting rhythms, this one’s for you.
Lucid Evolution opens things up with a spacey, psychedelic sound. They’ve got powerful vocals and are clearly very skilled players. Pair that with a good light show and you’re in business.
NEW TUNES
“Cybertruck” by Lofties
This is a fun, laid-back new track from local rapper and producer Lofties. It’s built on clean, electronic beats that lean a little futuristic, giving the vocals plenty of space to ride.
Definitely one to throw on when you get back from a late night out. Put it on, dim the lights, and just take it easy.
Photo of Willie Watson by Hayden Shiebler
Support RVA Magazine. Support Independent Media in Richmond.
At a time when media ownership is increasingly concentrated among corporations and the uber wealthy, RVA Magazine has remained one of Richmond’s few independent voices. Since 2005, the magazine has provided grassroots coverage of the city’s artists, musicians, and communities, documenting the culture that defines Richmond beyond the headlines.
But we can’t do this without you. A small donation, even as little as $2, one-time or recurring, helps us continue to produce honest, local coverage free from outside interference. Every dollar makes a difference. Your support keeps us going and keeps RVA’s creative spirit alive. Thank you for standing with independent media. DONATE HERE.
We’ve got merch HERE
Subscribe to the Substack HERE
And Reddit HERE
And YouTube HERE
